When you face criminal charges, you need to be sure you are doing all you can to protect yourself and your future. One of the biggest mistakes you could make is neglecting to seek legal counsel. Here are five reasons why you shouldn’t go it alone, even if your charges are “minor”, and why hiring a criminal defense attorney is necessary when facing criminal charges.

1. They Know The Local Judicial System 

One of the most important reasons to hire an attorney is that they know how the process works. Attorneys have been to court countless times, have navigated and studied the law, and understand how to build a solid defense. Representing yourself could put you at risk of an unfair result due to a lack of understanding of the process and what’s required. And, as important as knowing the system, they know the local players and the playing field. Individual courthouses are often their own little kingdoms and each handles matters somewhat differently. Also, prosecutors are individuals. They have patterns in how they handle cases and it’s vital to have knowledge of the individual courthouse and prosecutor.

2. They Have Had Similar Cases

You could hire any attorney to handle your case, but only when you choose a criminal defense attorney can you be sure that the attorney you choose has dealt with cases similar to yours in the past. An experienced attorney has walked this road before with others, and they can guide you through the process with knowledge and understanding of how to get the best possible outcome.

3. You May Save Money

Yes, attorneys cost money, but when you hire an attorney with the right knowledge to handle your specific type of case, you usually end up saving money. Not only do you position yourself for the best possible scenario for your case, but you may also avoid months of delays and unintended consequences due to an inexperienced legal team, or you’re handling your case as a layperson. If you are able to get a favorable result, you may be able to keep your job, minimize the impact of any record on your future, especially jobs and housing, and protect your assets. This is possible with the right legal representation.

4. They Arm You With Knowledge 

Going to court for a criminal case can bring up intense emotions. Your criminal defense attorney can help you manage those emotions by providing education about what to expect and what you can do to position yourself for the best outcome. When you know the realities of the legal system and the court process, and you have an experienced hand guiding you to navigate the system, you will be less likely to give in to these challenging emotions and make an error in judgment that could make things worse both in court and outside of court. You will know what you can do to minimize the impact of the case on your life, and you will have more peace of mind as a result.

5. You Have Access To More Resources

Building a criminal defense involves properly investigating the evidence, reviewing documents, speaking to witnesses, and sometimes the work of experts, to piece together what really happened and what accusations can be proven. Your legal team knows who to turn to investigate and analyze evidence, and they have the knowledge to determine the best way to defend you against the charges. They can also guide you as to whether or not you should plea bargain for the best possible outcome or take the case to trial. These resources and analysis help find the best way forward in a case like yours, and you will simply not have the same guidance without a criminal defense attorney.

When criminal accusations are brought against you, you need the right help to keep those charges from turning your life upside down. Heading into court to face criminal charges alone, or with an inexperienced attorney, puts you at a significant disadvantage. An experienced, skilled criminal defense attorney will help you get the best possible outcome during one of the most difficult times in your life.